Watching science movies / Lesson Plan

Create Your Own Custom Lesson Plan
PDF

Objective

By the end of this lesson, Brodi will have a deeper understanding of scientific concepts presented in popular science movies, as well as the ability to critically analyze the accuracy and representation of science in film.

Materials and Prep

  • Access to a selection of science movies (e.g., "The Martian," "Interstellar," "Hidden Figures")
  • Notebook and pen for taking notes
  • Internet access for research (if applicable)
  • Prior knowledge of basic scientific concepts (e.g., gravity, space exploration, biology)

Activities

  1. Movie Selection: Brodi will choose one science movie to watch. This could be based on personal interest or recommendations from a list of popular science films.

  2. Film Viewing: Watch the selected movie together. Encourage Brodi to take notes on scientific concepts, characters, and any questions that arise during the viewing.

  3. Discussion and Analysis: After watching the movie, engage in a discussion about the scientific concepts presented. What did Brodi find interesting or confusing? Were there any inaccuracies?

  4. Research Project: Choose one scientific concept from the movie and do a brief research project. Brodi can summarize the real science behind it and compare it to how it was portrayed in the film.

  5. Creative Expression: Brodi can create a short presentation or a poster that highlights the scientific concepts discussed, including visuals or quotes from the movie.

Talking Points

  • "What scientific concepts did you notice in the movie? Can you explain them in your own words?"
  • "How do you think filmmakers balance storytelling with scientific accuracy?"
  • "Were there any moments in the film that surprised you in terms of science?"
  • "Can you think of any other movies that depict science accurately or inaccurately?"
  • "Why do you think it's important for movies to portray science correctly?"
  • "What was your favorite character in the movie, and what role did they play in explaining science?"
  • "How does this movie inspire you to learn more about science?"
  • "Do you think the film's representation of science was fair? Why or why not?"
  • "What questions do you still have about the science presented in the movie?"
  • "How can we use movies to spark interest in scientific fields?"
  • "What would you change about the movie to make it more scientifically accurate?"
  • "Did the movie make you think differently about any scientific topics?"
  • "How do you feel about the portrayal of scientists in movies?"
  • "What is one takeaway you have from the movie regarding science?"
  • "How does watching science movies compare to reading science books or articles for you?"
  • "Would you recommend this movie to someone else interested in science? Why?"